I have approx 15k miles on my 2012 Road King and now shopping for new tires. I've read various posts discussing possible issues with factory wheel bearings on newer touring models, and the need to change out. I understand it's a good time to inspect while the wheels are off, but any obvious characteristics to look for other than if they are smooth turning or not ? Can anyone recommend a good/reliable aftermarket bearing to purchase ? If there are issue's with the bearings, it would seem to be a good opportunity to change out, but I'm hesitant to get another HD set ?

 

I put new brgs in my bike, and if I'm doing a customers bike, I highly recommend they do the same. the brgs are kinda crap. I say "kinda" because some last and some don't. Its been a problem, they had a run of real bad ones, and they seem to be getting better, if you have abs, you're kinda stuck with OE. there are others that people here have found to replace the OE ones, do a search here to find sources

 

replace with every tire change, and when you buy the new HD bearings pop the little seal out and pack the new bearings with some grease, they don't have much in them right out if the box. buy your own bearings puller, installer and service manual and learn to install correctly. i had a dealer replace mine under warranty and they didn't even have the bearings seated in the wheel all the way. if you want it done right,you have to do it yourself.

 

Seems a little excessive to change the bearings every time you change a tire.

 

I am in total agreement, You might go every other time, however, it will look like a bargan the first time you get stranded, or worse, from a floppy wheel. Its not right, nobody else (other manufactures) have to do this, but until the brgs get made better, it might be the way to go. Your call, thats for sure

 

harleycharlie .... yes, I do have abs, so thanks for the heads-up. Stuck with OEM is not comforting when I feel I have the opportunity to replace with something better. I will do some research. Thanks again !!!

 

Damn, just replaced the front on my breakout for the first time at 9500 miles, and on my third rear. No bearings yet but know I have to take a look.

 

hardheaded .... interesting that the HD replacements would still need to be packed ? I'm reasonably happy with the local HD service department. If, because I have ABS, I have to stick with oem parts, then I will be making a visit up there anyways, so I may as well inquire about this at the service desk. Appreciate the information.

 

harleycharlie .... do you know if the oem HD bearings are made in the USA or overseas ?

 

I may not have stated myself clearly, I do believe that you have to use the OE brgs if you have abs. I have not found any aftermarket brgs for the abs bikes, and I don't think there are any, I may be wrong but haven't heard of any. The abs brgs are different as they have magnets in the plastic seal to signal the sensor when wheel rotation starts slowing down or stopping altogether when the bike is still moving